Independent Living: Adulting, But Better

So, your parents are still pretty sharp but maybe the house is getting too big, or they're tired of shoveling snow. Independent living might be the ticket.

What is Independent Living?

Independent living is basically apartment living for adults. It's a place where you can enjoy your own space without the hassle of homeownership. These communities offer a variety of amenities like dining rooms, fitness centers, and social activities. Think of it as a place to relax and enjoy your retirement years. Think of it as a fancy apartment complex for grown-ups.

These places are popping up everywhere – big cities, suburbs, even some smaller towns. They’re designed for people who can take care of themselves but want a little extra security and community and none of the home responsibility. You'll find everything from cozy one-bedrooms to spacious two-bedroom apartments.

The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of Independent Living

Alright, let's talk real about independent living. You know, those places where your folks can kinda do their own thing? They sound great on paper, but let's be honest, there's always a flip side. We need to weigh the good with the bad to see if it's the right fit for your parents. Here are the glaring pros and cons of independent living.

The Good about Independent Living

Freedom: They can do their own thing, no questions asked
Social scene: It's like a big clubhouse for friends
Amenities: Pools, gyms, and stuff to keep them busy
No more chores: They won't have to lift a finger for yard work
Safety net: There are people around if they need a hand..

The Bad & The Ugly about Independent Living

Costly: Yikes! Let's face it, it is not cheap
Less privacy: They'll see neighbors all the time
Rules: Gotta follow the community's rules
Loneliness: They might feel a little isolated sometimes if they don’t know anyone and no one comes to visit
Limited care: It's not a nursing home, so medical help is limited

Money Stuff: How Does Independent Living Payments Work?

Usually, you pay a monthly fee that covers rent, utilities, and sometimes even meals. It's like rent for an apartment, but with extra perks. There might be an upfront fee too, kind of like a deposit. Prices vary based on location, size of the apartment, and the amenities offered. So, you will need to do your research on the facilities you and your parents are looking into.

Can you use insurance or government programs to pay for it? Generally, no. Independent living is considered a housing option, not healthcare. So, Medicare and Medicaid won't cover it. Some places might accept long-term care insurance, but don't count on it.

Finding That Perfect Spot

I know, you wanted us to tell you the best of the best for your parents’ needs. That’s a tall order. Finding the perfect independent living spot is like finding a needle in a haystack. There are a million factors to consider – location, cost, amenities, and safety, to name a few. Plus, what's perfect for one person might be a total dud for another.

It's more about finding a place that fits your parents' lifestyle and budget. Let's talk about what to look for in a good independent living community instead.

Location, Location, Location

If your parents are staying close, you won’t have to consider transportation very much because they are a) already familiar with the area, b) already have their vehicles registered in the state and city, and c) know where all of their doctors, favorite shopping, and top restaurants are located. But what if they want to move out of state?

Can they move to a different state? Absolutely! People move all over the place. But when they move, there are many things that you and they need to be prepared to handle before, during, and after the move.

Will they be moving to an all-inclusive community, such as the Jimmy Buffett-Inspired activating living facilities cropping up across the southern part of the US? These communities have premium features, daily activities, dining, and even entertainment. Or will they want somewhere that fits more of a laid back life, such as Brightview Senior Living. Just be prepared for different costs and rules depending on where you go. Obviously some communities will be much more expensive than others based on amenities, activities, etc.

What should they look for? When checking out these places, pay attention to the amenities. Do they have a pool, a gym, a restaurant? Is there transportation available to get your parents to the store, doctor’s office, or even fun events off campus? What about social activities? And of course, check out the apartments. Are they the right size? Do they feel safe and secure?How do you and your parents find the right place? Talk to your parents and make a list of everything they need and want. Some people love the hustle and bustle of the city, while others prefer a quiet suburban setting. Look online, read reviews, and schedule tours. And remember, visit many places before making a decision. This is not something to be taken lightly.